Original documents

Whitman's autopsy is notable because it found a brain tumor and there has been significant speculation regarding the potential role of this tumor in Whitman's violent behavior. The autopsy says of the tumor, “no correlation with psychosis.” Whitman's biographer, Gary Lavergne, writing in 1997 commented, “in the past thirty years nearly all of the physicians and criminologists who have made themselves familiar with the case have pronounced the tumor ‘innocent'” (p. 268).

Interviews with People Who Knew Whitman

Following Whitman's sniper attack, interviews were conducted with Father Joseph Leduc and John and Fran Morgan.

Before his sniper attack from the tower on the campus of the University of Texas on 1 August 1966, Whitman murdered his mother and then his wife. He left letters for his brothers John and Patrick, and notes about killing his mother and wife. He was also in the habit of writing notes and inspirational thoughts to himself. A sample of this, along with a later comment (perhaps added the night of the murders) is included.

On 29 March 1966, Charles Whitman had an initial session with Dr. Heatley at the university’s counseling center. This was the only session Whitman attended. This document is Dr. Heatley's report on the session.